Category: Parent’s Tips

Discipline is a part of growing up. As a parent, this is your responsibility. However, don’t allow your discipline to be an adult shouting match where the child sees you more out of control that he or she is. Parents often “loose it.” When this happens, the child ends up being confused by the action.

More than anything, your child wants focused time with you. Everyday life can be full of adventure and packed full of great learning experiences. At the end of the day, make up a story that involved the same experience you had with your child that day. Andy Ant stories were all initially based on things my daughter did the same day. Create a teaching character that lasts in the child’s mind for a lifetime.

Life should be full of fun for you and your child. Create ways to have fun together. This does not mean always investing dollars on some costly venture. Make a memory by having fun weeding a garden together, cleaning your child’s bedroom, baking cookies, going for a nature walk, or washing the car. Make life experiences the focus of fun adventures.

An outstanding educator and leader in educating students in San Bernardino, CA, Margaret Hill, posted a quote on her Facebook page a while back from Ben Franklin: “Tell me and I forget. Teach me and I remember. Involve me and I learn.” Parents, you need to memorize this one! It is easier to tell than to teach. Lasting impact on a child’s life comes through involvement.

It is tempting at times to “lay the law down” and demand your kids “do what they are told.” To get your child’s ownership on a decision you need to make, you need help them take ownership of the decision. Allow them to feel that the decision is theirs– even though you clearly know what the outcome must be. Keep your demands to a minimum.

Engage your child in the process of making good decisions. Help your child learn how to formulate options and draw reasonable conclusions. Work together so that the child begins to see how you think. Engagement helps your child begin to understand wise decision making processes.